Presented by Lara Pasotti (@See_Do_Eat)
Summer is flying by (doesn’t it always?) and now is the time to get out and enjoy the long, sunny days while they’re still around. Here’s what to see, do, and eat around north Indy right now.
See:
Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park
This expansive park at Newfields is free to visit and features a looping lakeside trail that takes just about 30 minutes to hike (OK, it’s basically just a walk). Leashed dogs are welcome and the sculpture park is great for active kiddos. Visitors won’t be able to miss the newly endowed Hawryluk Sculpture Green featuring a series of exciting outdoor art installations, including the new, interactive “Home Again” exhibition. Wear comfortable shoes, pack a picnic, and prepare to immerse yourself in public art and nature simultaneously.
Indianapolis Art Center
Walkable from most Broad Ripple eateries, the Indy Art Center’s outdoor ARTSPARK features interactive, open-air sculptures practically begging for you to walk off your meal and explore. Don’t miss the longstanding and peculiar Twisted House by artist John McNaughton. Inside, the galleries are always free and open to the public as well. With events and classes for youths and adults, anyone can dive deeper and unleash their artistic side.
Golden Hour Books
This new bookstore, instantly adored for its intentional curation, opened in midtown in 2023. Here, visitors can expect to find literary hidden gems sharing shelves with bestsellers. With nonfiction, poetry, small-press fiction and more, the store beckons readers to discover unique titles that open the door to personal adventures. Don’t miss the thoughtfully designed children’s section or the bookstore’s monthly events like Musical Storytime and First Friday Writers’ Mixers.
Do:
Broad Ripple Farmers Market
During warmer months, this market transforms an otherwise empty parking lot near Rural Street and Kessler Boulevard into a mecca of local groceries, flowers, and an impressive array of ready-to-eat items. Vendors gather, rain or shine, every Saturday for an 8 a.m. opening (9 a.m. in October). Shop like a pro and arrive early for the best selection. Bring cash and don’t forget a reusable tote.
Frank’s Paddlesports Livery
Frank’s is offering outdoor lovers and adventure seekers a fun activity in the heart of north Indy. This new business, launched in 2023, strives to see the White River utilized to its full potential, and offers rentals of kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards for use on the White River. While you can rent by the hour, you can also take a downriver cruise. The Frank’s crew shuttles you to your put-in location so your cruise ends back at your vehicle.
Indiana State Fair
The State Fair returns August 2 through 18 with familiar attractions like the midway, free concerts, animals, and assorted exhibits. This year’s theme is “The Art & Nature of Fun” in partnership with Newfields, and one new feature is a splash pad to help families stay cool. When it comes to the food, visitors can’t go wrong with tried-and-true favorites: a classic corn dog, melt-in-your-mouth elephant ear and refreshing lemon shake-up. Want to try it all? Plan to visit on $2 Tuesdays when admission, rides and concessions are offered for $2; just be prepared for crowds!
Eat:
Lick
For delectably crafted ice cream with unique and seasonal flavors, Lick is the spot! Every scoop is locally produced in small batches. Found right along the Monon Trail in SoBro, their little blue house is the perfect walking or biking destination on summer nights. Don’t miss summer favorites like key lime pie and blueberry sweet corn cookie. For bonus points, take a pint home to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Big Lug Canteen
Big Lug is well-known and well-loved around north Indy as a top dining destination, thanks to brewed-in-house beers, scratch-made food, and live music at their bustling patio along the Monon Trail in Nora. This family-friendly spot has ample parking whether you arrive by bike or car, and rotating weekly specials sure to tempt the taste buds. Try the popular Willie’s Special salad topped with guacamole and Frito salt, and order some poutine for the table too.
Nicey Treat
Indy’s coolest treat spot recently moved into a new Broad Ripple shop, but it’s only a block from the original spot, on Westfield Boulevard. Here, customers will find all of the same locally crafted ice pops they’ve come to love, in flavors like watermelon and cookie butter; dip the latter in decadent dark chocolate for only $1 more.
Public Greens
Farm season is in full swing and Public Greens is taking advantage, with a new seasonal menu bursting with summer flavors. To take a break along the Monon Trail in Broad Ripple, diners can grab a seat on this modern cafeteria’s picturesque patio and order a fresh cocktail garnished with local produce. Enjoy top-notch people-watching (and dog-watching!), as well as views of the microfarm that likely grew portions of your meal. Don’t miss their farm stand every Thursday from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. through August 22, with proceeds benefiting The Patachou Foundation.
Tea’s Me Cafe
Hydration should be top-of-mind on hot summer days. What better way to quench your thirst than with a large, freshly brewed iced tea? The Moroccan mint flavor is especially refreshing. Bring your appetite too, because Tea’s Me has an affordable and delicious food menu for both breakfast and lunch. The cafe’s community-focused programming makes it a win-win for tea lovers.
